Travel
9 of one of the best day journeys from Athens – Lonely Planet
A world-class metropolis, Athens is full of attractions and entertainment that may fill weeks of any customer’s time.
However quite a lot of different excellent locations are positioned inside straightforward attain of the Greek capital – whether or not you travel by public transportation, by boat or with your individual wheels. From historic ruins to island seashores, these day journeys from Athens are nicely well worth the journey.
1. Go to the picturesque former capital, Nafplio
Journey time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Nafplio, the primary capital of contemporary Greece, is without doubt one of the prettiest cities within the nation, with splendid Venetian and neoclassical structure and fortresses just like the hilltop Palamidi (a well-known 999-step climb) or Bourtzi (a small fortified islet within the harbor). Loads of elegant boutique inns, tasteful retailers and small eating places hidden in slender alleys make Nafplio a massively fashionable vacation spot for a day hop or an extended keep.
Additional south is the luxury resort of Porto Heli, the place Greek and worldwide jet-setters personal luxurious villas and mansions. The area additionally has some agreeable sandy seashores and quite a few native wineries, many open to the general public.
The right way to get to Nafplio from Athens: By automobile, the journey is round one hour and 45 minutes. The intercity bus from Athens Kifissos station to Nafplio takes two hours and 10 minutes.
2. Aegina is the right Greek island getaway
Journey time: 40 minutes / 1 hour quarter-hour
A visit to Aegina is the quickest option to end up on an island in case you’re staying in Athens. The Saronic Gulf island boasts an ideal mixture of essential historic ruins, enticing sandy seashores, charming neoclassical structure and native delicacies just like the internationally famend native pistachio selection.
Outdoors the picturesque Aegina City, the Temple of Aphaia, which is among the many nation’s high historic websites, and the villages of Agia Marina and Perdika are additionally value a go to. The large Orthodox church of Agios Nektarios is a well-liked pilgrimage vacation spot amongst each Greek and international guests. Keep away from the summer season weekends in case you can, because the island will get filled with Athenians escaping the town warmth.
The right way to get to Aegina from Athens: Take the ferry (one hour and quarter-hour) or the hydrofoil (40 minutes) from the harbor of Piraeus. Departures are frequent, and there is not any have to ebook prematurely.
3. Absorb the mythology at Delphi
Journey time: 3 hours
It may be on the lengthy facet for a day journey, however spending time in stunning Delphi is well worth the journey. Myths, historical past and spectacular mountains mix right here – in Greek mythology, the 2 eagles launched by Zeus met there, figuring out the Navel (or heart) of the World. The Sanctuary of Apollo, constructed within the seventh century BCE, was a revered historic oracle and residential to Pythia, the priestess who mumbled her notoriously ambiguous solutions on essential or on a regular basis issues to guests from each stroll of life.
A stadium excessive on the hill, an historic theater and Tholos (a round temple, most likely probably the most photographed landmark of the location), along with a small however important museum, maintain attracting modern-day crowds. The idyllic clifftop village on the slopes of Mt Parnassos, overlooking the limitless olive groves that encompass the sanctuary, is buzzing with taverns and memento retailers catering to day trippers.
The right way to get to Delphi from Athens: Take the KTEL intercity bus from Athens Liosion station to Delphi. Journey time is round three hours.
4. Stroll within the footsteps of ancients in Corinthia
Journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Inside the fashionable village of Corinthia loom the intensive but compact ruins of this historic (largely Roman) metropolis. Dwelling to legendary Jason of the Argonauts, stealer of the Golden Fleece, the streets of Ancient Corinth had been as soon as trodden by the likes of Pausanias, Roman vacationers, and St Paul, who taught the gospel of Christ right here.
Observe of their footsteps by visiting the Temple of Apollo, the Peribolos of Apollo, the traditional theater and different highlights. The superb on-site museum places every part into context.
The right way to get to Historic Corinth from Athens: Intercity buses depart hourly from Athens Kifissos station, arriving on the Korinthos bus station in Corinth Metropolis, taking about one hour. From right here, buses go to Historic Corinth (20 minutes).
5. Hit the mountain climbing trails of Mt Parnitha Nationwide Park
Journey time: 1 hour
Mt Parnitha, about 25km (15.5 miles) north of Athens, contains quite a lot of smaller peaks, the best of which is Karavola (1413m/4636ft), tall sufficient to get snow in winter. There are a lot of caves and far wildlife, together with purple deer, and the park is crisscrossed by mountain climbing trails, with two massive, full-featured mountain climbing lodges. The realm is fashionable for mountain biking as nicely.
The best option to discover is on the trail (a few 45-minute stroll) via Tatoi, the 40-sq-km (15-sq-mile) grounds of the previous summer season palace (closed); comply with Tatoi Rd out of Varibobi and search for a small path signal on the precise.
The right way to get to Mt Parnitha Nationwide Park from Athens: Take the Metro’s Inexperienced Line (Line 1) north to Nea Ionia, then take bus 724 to Thrakomakedónes. You may also proceed on bus 724 to the Parnitha Funitel, which takes guests to the highest of the mountain.
6. Think about the sound of Homer on the World Heritage-listed Mycenae
Journey time: 1 hour 45 minutes
On a hilltop backed by highly effective mountains stand the somber and mighty ruins of Historic Mycenae, dwelling of the legendary Agamemnon. For 4 centuries within the 2nd millennium BCE, this kingdom was probably the most highly effective in Greece, holding sway over the Argolid and influencing different Mycenaean cities.
World Heritage–listed Mycenae is synonymous with the names Homer and Schliemann. Within the ninth century BCE, Homer informed in his epic poems, The Iliad and The Odyssey, of “well-built Mycenae, wealthy in gold.” These poems had been, till the nineteenth century, thought to be not more than gripping and exquisite legends. However within the 1870s, the novice archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann (1822–90), regardless of derision from professionals, struck gold, first at Troy after which at Mycenae.
Earlier than exploring the archaeological web site, head into the Ancient Mycenae Museum for context.
The right way to get to Historic Mycenae from Athens: Every day KTEL intercity buses depart from Athens to Fichti, the closest city to Historic Mycenae, on the Nafplio route.
7. Wander the car-free island of Hydra
Journey time: Nearly 2 hours
Attractive Hydra is a rocky island with a wealthy historical past and spectacular, well-preserved stone mansions that when belonged to nice naval households and captains of the Greek Revolution. The city is constructed on the hillside round a shocking harbor; it has a tranquil attract like no different Greek island, because it’s fully car-free. Quite a few small museums, artwork galleries and boutique inns, along with the ever-present yachts docked within the harbor, contribute to its stylish aura and greater than make up for the shortage of seashores.
The right way to get to Hydra from Athens: Hydrofoils from the harbor of Piraeus take from one hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours. Buy tickets online prematurely.
8. Escape to the seaside eating places of Halkida
Journey time: half-hour
Constructed on the channel that separates the island of Evia from the mainland, and well-known for the six-hourly change within the route of the water’s circulate, Halkida cannot declare the title of vacationer magnet by any means. However, it is a nice seaside city value visiting to take pleasure in a soothing break from a busy city-sightseeing itinerary and for a style of Greek small-town life. There are additionally loads of good, clear seashores close by, in addition to numerous seaside eating places the place you may take pleasure in extraordinarily recent seafood, with much more selection than you may see in Athens.
The right way to get to Halkida from Athens: Halkida is an hour’s drive from Athens through the primary motorway to Thessaloniki. It is also accessible by intercity bus from Athens terminal station or by practice from Athens’ central station.
9. Watch the sundown at Cape Sounion
Journey time: 2 hours (Cape Sounion), 45 minutes (Marathon)
You may simply spend a complete day at both of those close-by locations, but when your schedule is tight, they each make good half-day journeys. Cape Sounion, on the southernmost tip of Attica, is the place the sumptuous Temple of Poseidon is positioned – this is without doubt one of the greatest spots round Athens to savor a beautiful sundown. It may be mixed with lunch or dinner at one of many many fish taverns within the close by working-class city of Lavrio.
Northeast of Athens, Marathon is the location of one of many biggest battles in historical past and the place the place the trendy Athens Marathon commences, following the steps of Pheidippides, the legendary historic courier who first ran the fantastic route. The archaeological museum, the tomb of Athenians fallen within the battle, and the lake with its dam are the primary points of interest of the world.
The right way to get to Cape Sounion or Marathon from Athens: Cape Sounion is a two-hour bus ride from Athens, and Marathon is a 45-minute drive. Take into account taking a taxi in case you’d want to not drive your self.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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